Grant: Idea to Innovation

The microwave enhanced advanced oxidation process (MW-AOP) is an innovative technology developed by the research team at UBC, specifically for the purposes of solids reduction and nutrients release from organic slurries. The MW-AOP, when combined with other technologies, can improve the waste treatment efficiency and increase the production and recovery of useful compounds from various waste streams. This research project is aimed at further developing the MW-AOP technology for the wastewater industry, using a pilot-scale system to be operated at a microwave (MW) frequency of 915 MHz. The development of the MW-AOP will be an important breakthrough that will have an immediate and major impact on the environmental and wastewater treatment industries. It also represents a significant commercial opportunity for nutrient recovery.The main objectives of this proposal are 1) to design a microwave (MW) based system that can increase process efficiency in terms of solids reduction and nutrient release; 2) to conduct a series of tests toward process optimization; and 3) to establish design criteria and operating protocols for this technology.Upon completion of this project, we will be able to demonstrate an efficient MW-AOP prototype treatment system that is ready for commercialization. This technology is also expected to attract investors and be ready to be transferred to a new or an established company.